JAMMU, Apr 28: After his release from Kathua jail on Tuesday, AAP MLA Mehraj Malik said that politics is increasingly getting entangled with legal cases, but maintained that no real change is possible without political engagement.
He vowed to continue his struggle for public welfare and said his efforts are driven by ideas rather than politics alone. His release comes after the Jammu and Kashmir High Court quashed his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
Malik stressed the need to rise above religious divisions and focus on humanity, saying his political mission is centred on reform and public welfare in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our struggle will continue. It is not a political struggle but a struggle of thoughts and for the welfare of people,” Malik told reporters.
Referring to his recent imprisonment, he said he had gone to jail while fighting for public rights. “I went to jail for this struggle. It was for the people, and it will continue,” he added.
Calling for greater youth participation in politics, Malik urged young people to step forward. “I am alone right now. I want youth to join politics. Only politics can change the fate of the people and the country,” he said.
He further said he has consistently raised public issues and will continue doing so. “I have been speaking for people’s concerns and will keep raising their voice,” he said, adding that his focus remains on welfare-oriented change through democratic means.
Responding to questions, Malik said he has always been committed to serving humanity. “Working for humanity is my passion and duty. Every religion teaches us to serve humanity, and people must move away from politics based on religion,” he said.
He added that governance should be judged on performance rather than identity. “A person is known by their character, not religion,” he said.
Alleging that cases were filed against him to divert attention from reform efforts, Malik said, “We did not enter politics to fight cases but to bring improvement. However, being entangled in such cases has become part of the system.”
Apologising to his supporters for the difficulties faced during his imprisonment, he said struggle is necessary for change. “If not me today, someone else will have to raise these issues in the future,” he said.
He added that time will reveal the truth, and democracy allows people to judge rightly. Reaffirming his commitment, he said his purpose remains unchanged even after release.
“There is no need to rush. We will plan properly and engage with people across the region,” he said.
He also said he holds no personal grievances against government officials and urged empathy in governance.
Referring to unemployment, Malik said it remains a bigger issue than drug-related concerns affecting youth.
He said that despite entering the assembly with hopes of reform, he found a lack of vision in policymaking. “If policymakers lack direction, how will society progress?” he questioned.
Calling on educated youth to participate in public life, he said those trying to enter politics for public service are often sidelined.
Referring to his eight-month imprisonment, Malik claimed no major improvements were seen in governance or institutions during that period. “You can imprison a person, but not his thoughts,” he said.
He further alleged that political space is shrinking and that those raising voices face difficulties. “Without political engagement, no real change is possible,” he said.
He added that major global changes are driven by politics. “Politics runs the world, and meaningful change comes only through participation,” he said. (Agencies)
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